PR 3330 
.095 L4 
Copy 1 



HELPS FOR TEACHERS 
of 

PILGRIM'S PROGRESS 
FORTHEB.y.P.U. 



^^ 



^S'B'C^ 



HELPS FOR TEACHERS 

of 

PILGRIM'S PROGRESS 

FORTHEB.y.P.U. 



L. P. LEAVELL 

LATE SECRETARY AND EDITOR OF 
B.Y.P.U. DEPARTMENT 



^m 



NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE 

THE SUNDAY SCHOOL BOARD 

of the 

SOUTHERN BAPTIST CONVENTION 



TT(333o 






From a child I was fond of reading, and all the little 
money that came into my hands was ever laid out in 
books. Pleased with Pilgrim's Progress, my first col- 
lection was of John Bunyan's works in separate little 
volumes. Plutarch's Lives there was in which I read 
abundantly, and I still think that time spent to great 
advantage. — Benjnmin FnDiklin. 



FOREWORD 

In answer to requests for extra material and helps for teach- 
ers of the B.Y.P.U. edition of Pilyrim's Progress, this pamphlet 
has been prepared. 

Many of the comments herein given are taken from great com- 
mentators on Bunyan's Pilgrim's Progress, particularly Peloubet, 
Kelman and Moody. These comments have been much condensed 
so as to give only the key thought. In not every case where 
quotation marks are used is the author's name given. 

It is not expected that a teacher shall attempt to bring in all 
the comments given in this pamphlet ; yet to have them in mind 
will give the teacher a larger background and serve to somewhat 
enrich the comments and explanations offered to the class. 

It is hoped that the blackboard illustrations will be utilized. 
They will serve as a kind of moving picture and stimulate interest 
by the appeal to the eye. If the teacher does not care to attempt 
them on a blackboard, some member of the class can be askeil to 
do so. The simpler the drawings are the better they will be for 
this purpose. 

The various plans for review have been tried out by teachers 
of the book and found successful. Much review is the secret of 
good teaching. Sutficient review insures a large number in each 
class to take the test and get the award. 

Special thanks are due Rev. F. C. Flowers, Lake Charles, 
Louisiana, for suggestions upon methods of teaching this book. 

Note : Page references in this book refer to the latest editions 
of Pilgrim's Progress for the B.Y.P.U. 



INTRODUCTION 

To ac(iniiiii( the t'hiss witli the times of Huiiyan. spend a few 
moments on tlie dates .tjiven in tlie introductory paragrapli, pa.^e 7. 
Put the foUowins on tlie blaekhoard : 

liEFOHE 1700 After 170() 

Bunyan died 16SS Kohiuson Crusoe 1719 

Isaac Watts horn 1674 John Wesley horn 1703 

Shakespeare died 1616 Charles Wesley horn 1707 

Kill!,' James' Version of 

Bihle 1611 

Stress the influence of the King James' Version of the Bihle 
upon Shakespeare, Isaac Watts and Bunyan. 

Macaulay said that Bunyan's knowledge of the Bible was such 
that he might have heeu called a living concordance. 

Mr. Woodberry said of Bunyan : "The only intellectual or moral 
ideas that came to him were conveyed by the Bihle. The common- 
place that the Bihle affords a good education, is true ; it was the 
total hook culture of Bun.van, all that he knew of the vast and 
varied world." 

For a full list of Scripture references which form the back- 
ground of Pih;rim's Progress, see "Bunyan's Pilgrim's Progress," 
Eclectic English Classics, edited by Jones and Arnold, American 
Book Company, Chicago. Price, 48c, postpaid. See pages 195-20S. 

Some member of the class ma.v have a copy of this edition, as 
it is used as a textbook in many high schools and colleges. 

Question 1 
What kind of man was Bunyan? 
Have the class underscore for the answer — "Rough," "Thought- 
less," "little religious influence," "nine" and "twenty-four." 

Question 2 
What led to Bunyan's conversion? 
Have the class underscore "army," "comrade," "killed," "God 

had spared," "married." "sometimes read." In next para.graph 

underscore "church," "read Bible," "thinking and praying," 

"verse," "I then saw." 

Question 3 
How came Bunyan to be in prison? 
Have class underscore "King Charles II," "ordered,"' etc.; 

"thirty years," "he wrote," etc. 

Of Bunyan in prison, Peloubet says- 
He could not understand why God should thus allow him to be shiit 

out from his work for the best twelve years of his life, his soul longing 



to preach the gospel, and thousands waiting to hear him. He could not 
then see, what now is plain, that by the Pilgrim's Progress he there 
wrote, he has been preaching to millions instead of thousands, and for 
centuries instead of years. 

So alse the story of Luther when shut up in the Wartburg castle with 
"Liberty." 

"Difficulties are the stones out of which all God's houses are built." — 
Fahcr. 

Helen Keller, the brilliant deaf, dumb, and blind girl, wrote, "The key- 
note of m.v life is this — always to regard as mere impertinences of fate 
the handicaps which were placed upon my life almost) at the beginning. 
I resolved that they should not crush or dwarf my soul, but, rather, be 
made to 'blossom, like Aaron's rod, with flowers.' " 

QXJESTION 4 
How did Bedford jail build up Bunyan's fame? 
Have the class underscore "The Pilgrim's Progress," "Three 
editions," and "favorite preacher and writer." 

Question 5 

Tell about Bunyan's last years. 

Have class underscore for answer, "last fifteen years," "popu- 
lar preacher in London," and "last words were," etc. 

Now, review these five questions rapidly. Have class state or 
read the substance of the underscored words. Then review them 
with books closed. In this way the class will get the idea of the 
best way to prepare the answers to the examination questions, as 
well as fix in mind the answers to these five. 

The more you revictv, the better the class will be prepared to 
take the test. If you neglect the review, you will find that compar- 
atively few will take the test. The very ones who need it most will 
not do the necessary review at home. They need the teacher's drill, 
and the inspiration of the answers of the class in chorus. Make 
the answers as short as possible, and make the reviews "snappy" 
by omitting comments during the drill. The teacher should ask the 
question, and nothing more ; have the class give the answer in 
chorus. Have them repeat the answer till all the class are saying 
it. Drill, drill, drill! 

In the poetry, on page 11, have the class underscore the word 
metaphor in the second and third stanzas ; bring out the author's 
point in this connection. Drill the class, in concert, uiwn the last 
three lines on the page until they can say them from memory. 

Have the class read in concert the second and third stanzas on 
page 12, underscoring the important words. Offer some little mark 
of distinction, like names written on top of blackboard, or seats 
of honor, or bouquets or ribbons for the lapel, to all who will mem- 
orize the last stanza. Call on them for it tomorrow, or whenever 
jm.v one is ready to recite it. 

8 



CHAPTER I 

Refer the class to notes on page 114. Have a good reader 
read the second paragraph, "A modern literary description," etc. 
Upon : "the wilderness," "the pilgrim," "rags," and "hurden," see 
pages 114 and 115. 

Sketch on the board, or have some pupil sketch, the first 
two or three "scenes" of the illustration given in the middle of 
this pamphlet. Make the sketch crude ; no time for a finished 
picture ; the imagination of the pupils will fill in the details. 

This illustration should be reproduced, step by step, as the class 
progresses. Have one pupil and then another draw these scenes. 
Or have the class elect an illustrator who may do the work at 
home on large sheets of paper and t)ring them to class to use at 
the right moment. In this way your blackboard room will be 
saved for the smaller diagrams and blackboard word-schemes 
suggested. 

Question 1 
What caused Pilgrim to leave home? etc. 

For the answer, have the class underscore in their books, page 

13, "man," "book," "burden." See comment on page 114 . "What 
shall I do?" "grief," "Oh, my dear wife," etc., "got him to bed," 
"worse and worse," "sorrowing over his misery." These words 
give the gist of the story. 

Question 2 

What did Evangelist give him? etc. 

This is the first dialogue. Many others will follow. Teacher 
should decide how best to carry out the dialogues. The more ways 
the better, since variety will add interest for the class. As you go 
along, perhaps the class will think of ways to make the dialogues 
interesting. Since Christian is the main character throughout, one 
good reader might take his part all through ; another might take 
Faithful's part ; still another. Hopeful's. The other characters 
may be represented by various members. 

Ask the readers to omit the opening phrases, such as "He an- 
swered" and "Then said Evangelist,"' and read only the actual 
words spoken by the character. In next to last paragraph, page 

14, have "Evangelist" hand to Christian a piece of paper marked 



Helps for Teachers of Pilgrhn's Progress 

"Parchment Roll." In one corner of the room arrange a lighted 
candle and a screen to represent the "Wicket Gate," have "Chris- 
tian" run over to it. 

As answers to question 2 have class underscore 'parchment 
roll," "Wicket Gate," and "yonder light." For meaning of each, 
see page 115. 

Question 3 

Pliable and ()l).stinate. See note, page 115, for contrast of these 
characters. As answers, underscore "my heart inclines," etc., in 
Pliable ; and "Had even Obstinate him.self," etc., in Christian, page 
17. -Sketch the characters, as per illustration in middle of this 
pamphlet. For the blackltoard — 

OBSTINATE 
NARROW 
CONCEITED 
BAD TEMPER 
Comment — 

I'llnble reminds us soine\vh;it of I'eter, easily influenced and impulsive 
in his nature. Bunyan himself had doubtless been like Pliable in these 
respects. But later he became as firmly fixed as a rock foundation, re- 
minding us of I'eter in his later experiences. 

Christian! shows up rather poorly here. But he srrows from this ex- 
perience on. He should be a comfort to young people who read this 
story. It takes time to become a full-grown Christian. Bunyan is right 
in leaving large room for growth of Christian's faith and for steady de- 
velopment. 

Note the three-character dialogue. Let the teacher read all of 
Christian's words, and two boys take the other two parts. Begin 
with Christian's words, "That can by no means be," etc., page 15, 
middle. Christian may be standing at end of the room near the 
can<lle and screen; Pliable and Obstinate go to him and try to 
bring him back to center of room. 

Additional Comment. — Upon Luke S : 13, "Who, in time of 
temptation, fell away," Peloubet suggests the following: 

So long as they are in the popular current, and there la nothing to 
test their principles, they appear all right. But as soon as any real test 
comes, they fall away. And this is one reason why God pennits trials 
and temptations and persecutions, in order that we may know in time 
whether we are true disciples or not. 

We can learn an effective lesson from Bunyan's story of Pliable and 
Christian in his "Pilgrim's Progress." Christian, awakened by lOvangelist 
to the fact that he was living in the City of Destruction, stjirted to go 
to the heavenly city ; and when his wife and children and neighbors tried 
to persuade him to come back, the man put his fingers in his ears, and 
ran on crying. Life ! Life I Paternal Life ! One of his neighbor.s. named 
Pliable, fearing to remain in the City of Destruction, was urged on by 
the prospect which, so they were assured, awaits them if they reach the 
far end of the narrow way ; the golden gate, the white robes, the angelic 
company, the face of the King. They were conversing together on these 

10 



Helps for Teachers of Pilgrim's Progress 



thlnprs. when on a suddpn, heedless of the sroiind. they both stumble into 
the Slough of Despond, and struggle miserably in the mire. Both at 
lenjith climb out onto dry land : but on opposite sides. Christian lands 
on the farther bank, and plods on toward the Wicket-Gate. 

Question 4 

Tell about the Slouch of DesiKnid. etc. Sketch the scene in 
illustration in middle of this pamphlet. Keep up the parts of 
the dialogue. Have a sirl represent Hel]!. 

See Comments on pa.ujes lir», IKi. 

Comment — ■ 

"Bunyan's picture of the Slonjjh of Despond may have been but a 
sketch of his own experiences and feelings in the jail over the river on 
a rainy or cloudy day. It is said that on such days the arches of the 
bridge were flooded. Such tinii's meant gloom and despondency. Recall 
the story of Elijah after his flight from .Tezebel's iiresence. Physical 
reaction may have played a large i)Hrt in these experiences. 

"In Hawthorne's 'The Celestial KailriKid.' which is a satire upon mod- 
ern fashionable religion, the Slough of Despond is crossed by a ver.v 
rickety bridge built upon insecure foundations. 

"The stepping-stones which led out of the Slough are the promises of 
God as given in the Scri))tures. Have the members of the class make 
a list of ten great promises. The lesson for us to learn is that we may 
get out of periods of doubt and despondency by tixing our hearts upon 
these promises. And we may get out on the heavenward side, as Chris- 
tian did. Tennyson speaks of mounting upon 'stepping-stones of our dead 
selves' ; that is, making i)r(igress in wisdom by our own faihires. Many 
a man has learned self-respect and self-contidence through his failures. 

"Despondency is a temi)orary experience and there is not much im- 
portance in merely getting out of it. The question is. When you arrive 
at the bank are you farther away from .your old sins than when you were 
in the midst of it." 

As answers for Question 4. underscore "miry slough, or 
swamp" ; "Christian, because of the burden" ; "Pliable, If I can 
get out" ; "so Christian was left" ; "Help, give me thine hand." 

For meaning — direct class to note, pages 115, 116. 

Question 3 

What two things did Worldly Wiseman condemn, and why? 

As answers, underscore the headings : "Worldly Wiseman Con- 
demns Evangelist." and "Worldly Wiseman Condemns the Bible." 

As answers to the "Why?" point the class to note on page 116. 

The dialogue, acting it out. will be effective here. Have a 
pupil represent Christian, walking alone, looking at his Book, at 
the front. Have him then Imik to the rear, shade his eyes with 
his hand and spy Worldly Wiseman, who comes from the rear 
of the room to the front and greets Christian with, "How now, 
good fellow," etc. 

Show sketch of scene, as i^r illustration in middle of this 
pamphlet. Note that Christian turns to the left — away from the 

11 



Hel-ps for Teachers of Pilgrim's Progress 

straight, narrow, upivard way. Point out expressions which show 
Worldly Wiseman's solely commercial view of life. 
Additional Comment — 

The Village of Mor.vlity. 

"It is suspicious that the village is so near, not quite a mile off. But 
he who sets out to reach Morality finds himself facing the most elastic 
mile in the world. Christian sees the village ahead of him, but at night 
he is no nearer to it than at daybreak. For Worldly Wiseman, it was 
indeed but a short distance. Morality meant for Christian a very much 
longer mile than it meant for Worldly Wiseman." 

The question for young Christians is not, which is better, morality or 
religion, but. How may real morality be reached? The answer is of 
course that real morality can be reached only through genuine religion. 

Mount Sin.\i. 

"Mount Sinai, through all the .years of the past, has been the com- 
manding metaphor for conscience and the law of God. Historically, it has 
been the platform from which the world has received its laws. Disraeli 
describes it as the mount of moral vision. Bunyan's pilgrim faces it as 
it threatens him with crushing rocks and deadl.y flashes of fire. His 
burden becomes heavier because he is out of the way." No Christian 
should be found howling at Mount Sinai. 

"Evangelist addresses Christian after the fashion that Nathan ad- 
dressed David. 'Thou art the man.' This is the "beating down process' 
described by Stevenson in 'The Celestial Surgeon.' It is the process 
which brings a sinner to his senses like the beating of a man fallen asleep 
in the snow or the blow of the swimmer which stuns the drowning man 
and prevents his clinging to him and drowning both. 

"Bunyan has a terrible hatred for turning back and treats harshly all 
such sinners throughout this story." 

Evangelist. 

"Review the former meeting of Evangelist and Christian. This time 
Evangelist asks, What doest thou here? reminding us of this same ques- 
tion when it was put to Elijah under the juniper tree. 

"It is interesting to note the place which Bunyim gives to Evangelist. 
Rev. John Gifford had been Bunyan's evangelist, and Bunyan himself had 
been an evangelist."- — Kclrnan. 

The outstanding characteristics of Evangelist are — 
manliness 
tenderness 

Question 6 

What did Evangelist tell Christian about Worldly Wiseman? 

For the answer, underscore on page 24, at bottom "Partly be- 
cause he seeks only," etc. ; and "For it saveth him from the 
cross." On page 25, "Enemy" ; "a design to rob thee," etc. 

Review several times the answers to the questions on this 
chapter. 



12 



CHAPTER II 

Question 1 
Give the meaning of the Wicket-Gate, and of Good-will. 
For the meaning of the Wicket-Gate and Good-will, see note on 
page 116. 

Additional Comment — - 

"In Hawthorne's 'The Celestial Railroad,' which is a parody on reli- 
gion, it is a clever touch of his to obliterate the wicket-gate as a narrow 
and inconvenient obstruction, and to build upon its site a railway stiition 
and ticket office. However, he declines to guarantee that the tickets will 
be received at the Celestial City. The difference between the sham reli- 
gion of the Celestial Railroad and the real experience of grace of which 
Bunyan writes is that the former has no such thing as conviction and 
decision, while the latter is grounded upon a distinct act of choice. 

"Good-will helps Christian by giving him a pull. This hiis much 
Scripture to support it. See Psalm 18 : 16 ; Jeremiah .31 : 3 ; John 6 : 14 ; 
John 12 : 32. For the door open and shut, see Revelation 3 : 8 and the 
story of the ten virgins. 

"Show to the class a picture of Christ at the Door, by Hunt. Point 
out the fact that the door has no knob or latch on the outside ; hence, it 
must be opened from the inside. Christ may knock, but you and I must 
open the door and invite him in." 

Question 2 
What danger threatened Christian? etc. 

For the answer, have class underscore key words in second 
paragraph from bottom of page 26. 

To illustrate this, have some pupil sketch the drawing of the 
Wicket-Gate and the Castle of Beelzebub, with arrows flying from 
it. See drawing in middle of this pamphlet. 

For the conversation beginning on page 27, select two good 
readers and have them read their parts while walking away from 
the part of the room in which was located the screen, etc., to 
represent the Wicket-Gate. 

Question 3 
Give brief description of pictures in Interpreter's House. 
Comment — 

"The seven pictures which Christian sees within may be thought of as 
a series of tableaux, each of them with a i^eculiar meaning to a Christian. 
"The Holy Spirit is in this way shown to be working upon memory, 
imagination and experience in such a way as to bring out certain great 
images or facts which shall remain with Christian throughout life as 
commanding truths and inspiration for his soul. 'The pilgrim is under 

13 



Hel-ps for Teachers of Pilgrim's Progress 



divine illumination, guidance and comfort while in the Interpreter's House 
and it is by instinct that Bunyan makes us feel the influence of the Holy 
Spirit.' " 

For answer to Question 3, have the class learn the short state- 
ment about each picture, as given on pages 116 and 117. Have 
a ditterent reader read Bun.van's stor.y of each picture. Then 
review the class upon the short statements in the back of the book. 

For the blackboard — 

To make each picture realistic, use the blackboard as a picture 
frame and write on it, for each picture, some ke.v words from 
Bunyan's description. For example, use the following for the 
first one — 

THE MINISTER 

EYES LIFTED TO HEAVEN 
THE BEST OF BOOKS IN HIS HAND 
THE LAW OF TRUTH UPON HIS LIPS 
THE WORLD BEHIND HIS BACK 
PLEADING WITH MEN 

Upon the fourth picture, the tire in the wall, Peloubet makes 
the following comment : 

Persecutions cannot destroy the truth. Christianity grows, whatever 
obstacles impede its way. Its projiress throufih the centuries has been a 
triumphal march over difficulties, opposition, hatred, and every obstjicle 
enemies could place in its way. 

•'ThouKh the cause of Evil prosper, yet 'tis Truth alone is strong. 
And. albeit she wander outcast now. I see around her throng 
Troups of beautiful, tall angels, to enshield her from all wrong." 

■ — James Russell Lowell. 

Bunyan in his "Pilgrim's Progress" well illustrates this truth : "Then 
I saw in my dream that the Interpreter took Christian by the hand, and 
led him toi a place where there was a fire burning against a wall, and 
one staJiding by it, always casting much water upon it, to quench it ; yet 
did the fire burn higher and hotter. Then said Christian, 'What means 
this?" The Interpreter answered. "This fire is the work of grace in the 
heart. He that casts water upon it, to extinguish and put it out, is the 
Devil. But in that thou seest the fire notwithstanding burn higher and 
hotter, thou shalt also see the reason of that." So he led him about to 
the back side of the wall, where he saw a man with a vessel of oil in his 
hand, which he did also continually cast Unit secretly) into the fire. Then 
said Christian. 'What means this"/' The interpreter answered, 'This is 
Christ, who continually with the oil of his gi-ace, maintains the work 
begun in the heart.' " 



14 



CHAPTER in 

Question 1 
Where did Christian lose his burden V How? What became 
of it? 

For the answer to "where," underscore, on page 37, "As Chris- 
tian came up to the cross." 

What became of it? Underscore "tumbled, till it came to the 
mouth of the tomb." 

How? Underscore. "He hath given me rest," etc. Have the 
class stand and sing several verses of "At the Cross." Reiieat 
John 3 : 16, and Isaiah 1 : IS. 

Have a member reproduce the simple sketch of the cross and 
the tomb, as given in the middle of this pamphlet. 

Put on the blackboard the four gifts of the angels, as follows — 
PEACE 

NEW RAIMENT 
MARK ON FOREHEAD 
SEALED ROLL 
Have a good reader look up and read to the class the refer- 
ences suggested in the middle of page 117. 

Comment — 

"The descriDtlon of Christian at the cross is one of the finest passages 
in the story and is well worth memorizing. Offer a recognition of some 
sort tot all who will memorize it before the end of this study. In this 
story, coming to the cross is the last incident in the Siilvation of Pilgrim. 
The cross, which was used as the emblem of slavery, now becomes the 
means of liberty and blessedness. The sinful man lost his burden at the 
cross because he re.ilized and appropriated the meaning of the cross. He 
acted upon what he saw and knew. This is the essence of Christianity. 
The joy that followed was inevitable. No commentary is necessary or 
possible here, except the memory of that experience in the lives of those 
who have had it." 

Question 2 

How would the Lord of the City know Christian? 

For the answer, underscore on page 39. "(Christian told them 
that the I>ord of the City," etc. See also, page 111, "Then the 
pilgrims gave to them their certificates," etc. 

Simple, Sloth and Presumption 
Carry out the dialogue with three readers. Reproduce the 
sketch of scenes between the Cross and the Hill of Difficulty, as 
shown in the middle of the ijamphlet. 

IS 



Hel-ps for Teachers of Pilgrim' s Progress 



Comment — 

"This is the only trio in the book, although there are numerous couples. 
These three men seem to be types of religious indifference. 

"Bunyan brings us so suddenly upon these three sleepers that the con- 
trast between them and Christian, so recently blessed with the gifts of the 
angels, is nothing short of violent. Next to turning back, Bunyan seems 
to hate the sin of standing still and gaing to sleep. 

"Note that Bunyan stoops over these three sleepers, not to gossip nor 
to thank God that he is not as they are, but to help save them if he can. 
That is. Christian, immediately after his conversion, becomes a personal 
worker. Such an experience as this will hasten any Christian along his 
pilgrim way." 

Formalist and Hypocrisy. 

"As these men come 'tumbling over the wall' they present a warning 
to those who would jet religion by the short-cut method. Compare 
Christ's words in John 10 : 1-10. The short-cut method always proves 
the longest way around, in the end. 

"In Dante's 'Inferno,' we have the story of the beginning of his jour- 
ney. He tried a short cut up a steep mountain, but was driven back by 
the wild beasts and was forced to take the long and dismal journey clear 
through ; but the story ends with his gaining the heights of heaven. 

"Note that the story of Formalist and Hypocrisy comes between the 
Cross and the Hill of Difficulty. It is at these two points, more perhaps 
than at any other points in the whole journey, that reality instead of hy- 
pocrisy is indispensable. It is interesting to note that in Dante's 'Inferno' 
it was at The Valley of the Hypocrites that the earthquake of Calvary had 
broken down all the bridges and left no standing room for the hypocrites." 

Question 3 

At the Hill of Difficulty, what happened to Christian? 

Have the class underscore for the answer, "spring," "two 
ways," "narrow way," "Christian loses his roll," "pleasant arbor," 
"slept till almost night." 

Refer class to note, page 117, on the Hill of Difficulty. 

Reproduce sketch of the Hill, the spring, the two ways. Danger 
and Destruction, which Formalist and Hypocrisy took. See sketch 
in middle of this pamphlet. 

Comment. — Peloubet makes the following comments here : 

Every one is a Traveler through life, and he is likely to meet many and 
many an adventure. At least he is certain somewhere on his journey, to 
come across Circe's palace with all its attractions. There has never been 
a drunkard who was not once an innocent child ; never one but was be- 
guiled by her temptations to taste of the intoxicating cup. From the 
story before us let us learn the dangers, and find the path of safety. 

When I was a child my mother used to draw for me a simple picture 
of two diverging paths starting from the same point, one narrow, rising 
up toward heaven, the other broad and descending toward the pit. It was 
oasy to leave the broad road and cross to the upward path at the begin- 
ning, for the distance was short and the obstacles few ; but not so easy 
as. to start from the first in the right way. But the farther one traveled 
in the downward way, the greater the distance to the heavenly road. 
The obstacles grew more obstructive, the rivers broader, the mountains 
higher, the morasses more miry and extended, and fierce beasts haunted 
the wilds. 

16 



H dfs for Teachers of Pilgrim's Progress 

Formalist and Hypocrisy may rcpresoiit the devices for avoid- 
ing real experiences which try the soul and result in character 
buildinj; ; they, like many others today, tind that easier way a 
shell road for their religion. It must be an easy-goinj; religion 
that denies tJie cross, and sin and hell. These men took a short 
cut to avoid the cross; then they take a long way around to avoid 
the hill. Many of the kmgest wanderings in life have been begun 
to avoid a very little hill. 

Additional Comment — - 

"Tho Hill of Diftloulty is a tost of real determination on the part of 
every iiilt;rini. Thih test is aF)plie(l to Christian, Formalist, and Hypocrisy. 
It is a thrust at short cuts and ways to avoid effort. In 'The Celestial 
Railroad.' Hawthorne satirizes modern religion from which all difiiculties 
have been removed. He sends the train of the Celestial Railroad through 
a tunnel bored underneath the Hill of Ditlieulty. We recall the ancient 
adage. 'There is no royal road to success,' meaning, of course, no high- 
way, smooth and straight, by which we may go without exertion." 

Christian's exi)erience here may be outlined in three stages 

for the blackboard — 

1. YOU MAKE ME AFRAID 

2. I MUST VENTURE 

3. I WILL GO FORWARD 

We learn from Christian that it is not fear that is fatal ; but it 
is the yielding to fear. Our salvation has to be worked out with 
fear and trembling, and this is part of the trial in each new expe- 
rience. 

Dante in describing purgatory has his "steep hill of virtue."' 
In reli,gion as in the physical life, there is danger of losing vi.gor 
when difticulties vanish ; muscles degenerate when climbing is 
avoided. Men in business today expect ditticulties. Athletes train 
hard during the season and take hikes during vacations so as to 
keep tit. Browning knew the truth when he wrote, "Welcome each 
rebuff that turns life's smoothness rough." 

Timorous and Mistrust 

Have two readers carry out the dialogue between these two. 
We have here another example of Bunyan's happy faculty in nam- 
in,g his characters so that the name tells its own story. 

For the blackboard — 

TIMOROUS REPRESENTS PHYSICAL FEAR 
MISTRUST REPRESENTS MENTAL FEAR 

Watchful, the Porter, and the Palace Beautiful 
Show sketch of the Palace Beautiful, and indicate the lions 
which .guarded its entrance. Note the effect of these upon Tim- 

17 



Helfs for Teachers of Pilgrim's Progress 

orous and Mistrust and the difference upon Ctiristian. Note espe- 
cially his resolve. 

Carry out the dialogue betweeu Watchful and Christian. Refer 
class to notes, pages 117, 118, on the lions and on Watchful. 

Question 4 
How did Christian get by the lions? 

For the answer, have class underscore on page 43 the para- 
graph beginning, "Then I saw that he went on trembling," etc. 

Question 5 (a) 

What happened to Christian in the Palace Beautiful? 

Have class underscore key words in the paragraph of this 
section. The following blackl)oard scheme will help in fixing in 
mind the main facts — 

1. Questions asked by Piety: 

STARTING THE PILGRIMAGE 

LESSONS LEARNED FROM THE INTERPRETER 

2. Questions asked by Prudence: 

LONGING FOR PAST LIFE 

WHY DESIROUS OF MOUNT ZION 

WHY FAMILY WAS LEFT 

At the Supper Table 
The discussion of Christ centered about the following points : 

1. HIS DEEDS AS A WARRIOR 

2. HIS GREAT LOVE 

3. MADE PILGRIMS PRINCES 

The Stuiiy and the AKMor.Y 
The instruction given to Christian by the virgins was as a prep- 
aration for the experiences which lay in the dangerous way before 
him. For the blackboard — 

INTELLECTUAL INSTRUCTION 

1. THE BIBLE 

2. SAINTS AND HEROES 

3. INSTRUMENTS OF VICTORY 

SPIRITUAL INSTRUCTION 

1. FORESIGHTS OF THE JOURNEY 

2. GLIMPSES OF GLORY 

18 



Hel-ps for Teachers of Pilgrim's Progress 

Question 5 (b) 
What does it all mean? 

For answer, refer elass to note on page 118, Watchful and the 
Palace Beautiful. 

Additional Comment — 

"The Palace Beautiful is a ehanninK conception and beautiful pea 
picture of the traveler in the dusk of evening coming to the house of a 
friend, from whose doors and windows warm lights stream out their 
welcome and offer their hospitality. 

"It is also a picture of wh^it the church can do for one iiiimediately 
after he has overcome great dittic\ilties. It shows the church in its social 
aspect, encouraging its meml)ei's in fellowship and Christian conversation. 
It is a Rest House halfway up life's climb. It is the half-way house going 
up Pike's Peak. 

"Hawthorne, in his 'Celestial Railroad." passes over the House Beau- 
tiful with only a few scornful jests — suggesting that the way is so easy 
th:it there is no need for such preparation as Christian received here." 

Question 6 
Name the pieces in Christian's armor as given in Eph. 6 : 13-18. 
Peloubet malves the following comment — 

"How Can the Work Be Done? By striking the militant note. A 
distinguished scholar and professor of Harvard University has recently 
declared that what o)ir modern world most needs is a moral equivalent of 
war, something which will appeal to men as universally as war does, and 
which instead of destroying their souls will save them. Open your New 
Testament. O Professor, and you will tind the moral equivalent of war 
expounded and illustrated. The Christian life is warfare. Following 
Christ keeps men on the bittlelield. It is endlessly significant that the 
New Testament loves the imagery of war. 

"The Char.\c'Teri.stic Vuitt'es op a Soldier Are the Crowning Vir- 
tues OF A Christian. Listen to Paul calling to the Roman Church : 'Let 
us put on the armor of light.' He does not ask the old city who has 
pushed her conquests to every horizon to lay down her armor, but simply 
to change it. He does not beseech her to cease to be conqueror, but only 
to change the weapons of her warfare. 

"In the first of all his letters he writes to the Thessalonians : 'Let us 
be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love, and for a helmet 
the hope of salvation.' The figure was so; pat and so illuminating that 
he kept it and used it again .-ind ag.iin in his sermons and in his letters; 
in his letter to the Bphesians beginning. 'Put on the whole armor of 
God.' When he talks to Timothy, he spe.'ks after the manner of a war- 
rior: 'Timothy, fight the good fight of faith.' 'Endure hardness as a good 
soldier of Jesus Christ.' " 

Review. — Drill class on questions for this chapter. Follow sug- 
gestions in note on page 118. 

Since this is about the half-way point in Christian's journey, it 
will be w^ell to review the story rapidly from the first. Use the 
sketch in the middle of the pamphlet and have the class suggest the 
meaning of each scene. Call upon those who represented the 
several characters to tell what their character did and said at 
certain places. 

19 



Helps for Teachers oi Pilgrim's Progress 

Then write on the hhiekhoard the followini? characters — 

CHRISTIAN 

EVANGELIST 

OBSTINATE 

PLIABLE 

WORLDLY WISEMAN 

GOOD WILL 

INTERPRETER 

APOLLYON 
Rapidly review the story of each and ask for suggestions as to 
wliat they represent in modern Cliristian experience. Then, write 
on the blackboard the following names of places — 

CITY OF DESTRUCTION 
WILDERNESS OF SIN 
SLOUGH OF DESPOND 
VILLAGE OF MORALITY 
WICKET-GATE 
INTERPRETER'S HOUSE 
THE SEVEN PICTURES 
THE CROSS AND TOMB 
HILL OF DIFFICULTY 
THE ARBOR 
THE LIONS 

THE PALACE BEAUTIFUL 
Rapidly review the meaning of each. Stress the SEVEN PIC- 
TURES, seen in the Interpreter's House, and their meaning. 

Ask for Instances where God helped his servants just at the 
right time ; sometimes through his servants and sometimes directly. 
In many instances, God's Word helped. 

Ask for the difticult places and the story of how Christian got 
out of them. 

Ask for suggestions of great doctrines of grace, and what Scrip- 
tures they are based upon. This question may be carried all 
through, and the notations made in notebooks. 

Ask for great hymns which we know and love as suggested by 
the story up to this point. 



20 



CHAPTER IV 

Question 1 

Describe ApoUyon. Whom does he represent? 

For answer, underscore key words of paragraph, paice ill, be- 
ginnuig. '"So he went on." P\)r suggestions on whom he repre- 
sents, .see note, page lis. 

Select two readers for tlie diah)gue between Cliristian and 
ApoUyon. 

Comment — 

"Christian 'comes to eartli asain.' After a 'mountain-top experience' 
such as we sometimes have in a great revival season, or a service of 
especial power in the church, he must come down into the valley of prac- 
tical affairs and meet and master the enemy. 

"Compare Milton's fallen angel, Satan; and Guethe's Mephi.stopheles. 
Bunyan's devil is not pictured as an angel of light but as one to be ab- 
horred." 

The fight with ApoUyon may be outlined on the blackboard as 

follows — 

1. THE WAR OF WORDS 

(1) A claim: "going to Mt. Zion." 

(2) A promise: "I let myself to another." 

(3) Plea for reconsideration: not to go back. 

(4) Reminded of inconstancy: "Thou didst the same by 

me." (This appeal to shame — is a real temptation.) 

(5) Silence of God: "never came to your help." 

(6) Accusation: unfaithfulness. (With his pen dipped in 

his heart's blood, Bunyan writes this.) 

Christian pleads guilty to these charges, but his hatred for 
ApoUyon increases. 

Question 2 
Describe the battle between Christian and ApoUyon. Under- 
score the statements equivalent to the following — 

1. THE BATTLE OF SWORDS AND DARTS 

(1) Enemy loses self-control, and gives way to violence. 

A hopeful turn for Christian who is "void of fear." 

(2) Flaming dart caught by the shield of faith. 

(3) Christian wounded. 

21 



Hel'ps for Teachers of Pilgrim's Progress 

(4) Wrestling against "the prince of the powers of the 

air." 

(5) Saved by the Sword of the Spirit, the Word of God. 

(6) The Tempter flees. 

Temptation is an honor and mark of God's confidence. It is 
not an opportunity to sin. for the Christian ; Init. an opportunity 
not to sin. In this victory-. Christian found himself, and it made 
a man of him. The Valley of Humiliation became for him the 
scene of Triumph. 

Question 3 

How were Christian's wounds healed? 

For answer, see note on pa.u:e 118. Underscore, on page 55. 
lines beginning. "Then there came to him a hand," etc. Have two 
readers carry out the dialogue under heading — 

The Valley of the Shadow of Death 

"One recalls descriptions of the nari'ow malarial gorges of Palestine 
which run like fissures across the eastern side of the tableland of .Tudeu. 

"Death itself is not meant here, but the sh.ndow of death, ftilling dark 
.-•nd de:idl.v across some part of life. It follows the flght with Apoll.von. 
in this story, to teach that Ai)oll.v(in has not left Christian, except "for a 
season.' as in the temptation of .lesus. Ohrisian need not seek repose 
.vet; he is kept from self-cungr itulation liy a new peril. To Bunyan, the 
Christian life was a serious thing, a constant climb upward and a tight 
against foes all the way up." 

The Valley is characterized by — 

DARKNESS 

SOLITARINESS 
INDEFINITENESS 

"A time of desertion of will, heart, hope and faith ; all seemed dead." 
"Hawthorne in 'The Celestial Railroad,' cleverly lights up this valley 
with gas drawn from the coils of the infernal pit. (Jaslight is all too 
common today as a remedy for gloom. The 'bright lights' do not let in 
the light of faith and God's love for the human siiirit. We re.ioice that 
through all this Christian steps on steadily. He who does this will find 
the darkness to quicken his sight and allay his fears." 

"Nothing before, nothing behind ; 
The steps of faith 
Fall on the seeming void 

And tind the rock beneath." 

Two Men Kuxxixg 

"The 'Evil of Retreat' seems a favorite theme for Bun.van's contempt 
and censure. Compare the story of Timorous and Mistrust. Christian 
says. 'But this must still l)e the way to the Celestial City' and goes for- 
ward. No retreat for him ! 

"Recall the Civil War stor.v of the standard-bearer who went forward 
alone with the colors. The colonel shouted, 'Come back here, old Sam.' 
The answer was, 'These colors never go back ! Come on up; here to the 
colors 1' 

22 



Helfs for Teachers of Pilgrim's Progress 



•■Christian had his sword still in liis hand. Kofall the scene in Faust 
where the soldiers reverse their swords and thus present to Mephistopheles 
the sitrn of the cross — so that he cannot advance. It is a happy fancy 
that the sword hilt may hecome the mystic cross, making the prayer but 
another side of action."' 

See note on All-prayer, page 118. Take time to siiiir a verse 
of the hymns suggested in this paragraph. 

BcHct hji ficiuls. Sketch this exiKuience l)riefly. Note the three 
reasons why Christian was glad. 

Question 4 
What is said about Pope and Pagan? 

For the answer, underscore page 59, beginning "two giants." 
In next paragraph, underscore 'Pagan had been dead," etc. 
Comment on Pope and Pagan — 

'"This section of the story brings up the subject of persecution. Rome 
has always been a persecutor. Bunyan undoubtedly knew well Foxe's 
'Book of Martyrs' ; it may have' been the chief source of his knowledge 
of history. 

"Protestantism appeals to those who are willing and able to under- 
take the intellectual and spiritual responsibility of religious thought and 
life. Persecution and force have no part in it." 



23 



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CHAPTER V 

Comment — 

"Faithful. The story here takes a graiihic turn. Christian has a 
companion. He must no longer make his journey alone. Hitherto the 
interest has been in Christian alone,. and in his solitary adventures. He 
now sees the man out in front of him whose voice he had heard. It is 
with fine understanding of the human heart that Bunyan introduces 
Faithful at this time, and nothing could be more natural than the man- 
ner of his introduction. Elijah, after his valley of darkness, came into 
assurance and new hope when he learned that there were seven thousand 
who had not bowed the knee to Baal ; so Christian needed a companion 
and the assurance that he was not to be alone in his conflicts. When 
Christian falls. Faithful helps him to rise. Paul and Silas had fellowship 
even in i)rison ; Jesus sent his disciples out by twos.'' 

What Does Faithful Stand For? 
An interesting but not very convincing theory is that Faithful repre- 
sents (1) another part of the Christian's experience which Christian could 
not very well be made to i-epresent. Later on Hopeful becomes the com- 
l)anion of Christian, and Christian, Faithful and Hopeful represent the 
three graces. Faith, Hope and Charity. (2) A second type represented by 
Faithful." 

The writer seems to feel the in.siifticieney of any one human 
life as an all-round picture of Christian manhood. In all Chris- 
tian men there is one Spirit, but there are diver.sities of opera- 
tions corresponding to the complexity of human nature. 

In Bunyan's Grace AhoiindhKj. he shows his own appreciation 
of Martin Luther and speaks with something like real affection of 
Luther's hook on the Galatians. Luther was Bunyan's Faithful 
in more than one dark valley. It is interesting to note that no 
real mishap befalls either of the pilgrims, Christian and Faithful, 
while they are together. Christian first says, "My dear friend," 
and later, "My brother." 
For the blackboard — 

Faithful's Characteristics 
STEADY OF NERVE 
STRONG OF WILL 
NOTABLE FOR MOMENTUM 
His characteristic expression is, "I lirmly believe it."' He has 
faith of two kinds: (1) Active faith, of trust and fidelity; (2) 
passive faith, of belief. But his active faith predominates. 

Question 1 
Describe the meeting of Christian with Faithful, 
Refer class to note, top of page 119, 

26 



Helfs for Teachers of Pilgrim's Progress 

For tlio answer, have class uiulerscore, pase 60, "He saw 
Faithful before him," "stay, sta.v, till I come up to .vou," "outran 
him." "stumbled and fell," "went lovin.i;l.v on to.i^^ether."' 

Have two readers earry out that tirst conversation. 

Question 2 

In what ways was Faithful like Christian in be.i,'innini; the 
pilj^rimaixeV 

For answer, under.score, pages (JO, 01. "City of Destruction be- 
fore you set out," "neighbors talk so." "believed that the end of 
our city," etc. 

Comment — 

"The City of Destruction. After Christian left, there was much ex- 
citement and derision on the Dart of his friends. There was no firm 
belief in his purpose because they did not take iiractical steps for carrying 
out their convictions'. 

. "Pliable. He got little thanks for returning after his experience in 
the Slough of Despond. Bunyan seems glad to tell what he thinks of 
pilgrims who turn back. Apostasy is a thankless business." 

.See note on I'liablc. page ll!l. 

Question 3 

How was riia])le treated when he got home? 

Carry out the conversation aliout Plial)le in dialogue form. 

For answer, underscore "Some mock and despise him." "his 
enemies hiss at him and laugh," "ashamed of what he had done." 

Comment — 

"There is a stoi-y of a spy wlio was caught and pardoned in one of 
Napoleon's cami)aigns : but when he offered to turn traitor and supply 
Napoleon with infoi-mation regarding the movements of the army which 
he had deserted, Napoleon had him shot. 'Mr. Anything became a brisk 
man in the broil ; but both sides were against him because he had been 
true to none.' 

"Note that these wise ])ilgrinis do not indulge in ill-natured gossip 
about others, but av</id that danger by talking about themselves. When 
this is done in the confidence of an intimate friendship it may be a valu- 
able exercise." 

FAITHFUL'S PAST JOURNEY. 

"We have had two glimpses of Faithful : (1) When the porter at the 
House Beautiful said that he had passed that way. (2) In the Valley of 
the Shadow of Death. 

"He had escaped the Slough of Despond and seems to have missed the 
Interpreter's House and th(> House Beautiful. While Christian had lin- 
gered there and learned. Faithful had pressed steadily on. and the result 
is a stronger manhood in some respects, though one which is neither so 
full nor so ripe. — Kelman. 

27 



Hel-ps jar Teachers of Pilgrim's Progress 

Question 4 

How did Adam the First treat Faithful? Who delivered him? 

Carry out the dialogue between Christian and Faithful, to 
middle of page 64. before answering this (luestion. See notes on 
page 119. 

For the answer, underscore, page 62, "He told me that his 
work." etc. ; "that his liouse was tilled with dainties," etc. 

Who delivered him? 

For answer, underscore on page 63, "I saw written there, Put 
off the old man," etc. ; "saw one coming after me, swift as the 
wind," "but one came l).v and bid him forbear." etc. 

Comment — 

Faithfufs temptations were of two kiiiils : 

(1) Wanton and Adam, which appeal to the sensual nature. 

(2) Discontent and Shame, which appeal to the social nature. 
"Note that Faithful avoids the temptations of Wanton by 'shutting his 

eyes and going on his way.' 

"Regarding Adam the First: P>unyan"s Adam is the Adam of Paul 
rather than of Genesis and is a ver.v human figure. He is the most dis- 
tinctly drawn of all Bunyan's pictures of tempters and is an extension of 
the idea of Wanton representing the appeal to the entire sensual side of 
man. He is eas.v going, luxurious, conscienceless, and stands for all that 
is of the earth earthy. 

"The time at which the temptation came is significant. After the first 
impulses of the pilgrimage had begun to flag, ;i reaction was inevitable. 
This experience corresponds to Christian's sleep in the arbor on that same 
Hill of Difficulty. 

"This temptation in one form or another comes to every Christian and 
always from Deceit. There is only one way to successfull.v meet it. That 
is to look it straight in the face and see the truth, as Faithful did. 

" 'One came by and hid him forbear' and that one had holes in His 
hands and His side. There can be no doubt that here the wounds of 
Christ are set over against the old Adam, as well as over against Moses. 
The picture of the crucifixion is introduced as the ni.an's salvation over 
against his accusing conscience. There is here a subtle touch of spiritual 
art in setting Christ's wounds over against the bodily appetites." 

Recall the hymn — 

1 "Arise, my soul, arise : 

Shake off thy guilty fears; 

The bleeding sacrifice 

In my behalf appears; 

Before the throne my Suret.v stands. 

My name is written on His hands. 

2 "Five bleeding wounds He bears, 

Received on Calvary ; 
They pour effectual prayei's, 
They strongly plead for me : 
Forgive me. O forgive, they cry. 
Nor let that ransomed sinner die !" 

This gre.it hymn by Charles Wesley should be known by every young 
Christian. There are three other verses not quoted here, each of them 

28 



Helfs for Teachers of Pilgrim's Progress 



equally rich in gospel truths. In many churches this hymn is used in 
connection with the observance of the Lord's Supper. 

Discontent 

"The meeting of Faithful with Discontent introduces the second ^roup 
of his temptations. lie had heen preserved from yielding to the lower 
temptations of the tirst group : now his pride and self-respeet which 
helped him to resist the former become in themselves the means of a 
new temptation. The man of high spirit is now attacked by Discontent 
and Shame. 

"There is a sense in which discontent is not bad. There is a noble 
discontent, which is a desire for better things. "The good can be the 
enemy of the best.' 'Make the good better and make the better best.' 

"But this temptation presents a different sort of discontent. The point 
of the temptation was in this : 'The valley was altogether without honor.' 
When the way of a Christian leads through the Valley of Humility, it 
often means the loss of friends such as are named here. The temptation 
was to shun the Valley and h(dd the friends. The world can see no honor 
in humility, hence it is lonely. Faithful brushes the temptation aside by 
saying, 'I had rather go through this valley, for it was considered the 
wisest thing to do by those who know.' 

"I would not if I might. 
I'd rather walk with Him by faith 
Than walk alone by sight. 
I'd rather go with God in the dark 
Than go alone in the light." 

"The wrong kind of discontent often results in a spirit of grumbling 
about things in general. 'Israel murmured against Moses. Exodus 15 : 24. 
The first distinct act of the Israelites after they were set free from Egyp- 
tian bondage was murmuring, grumbling." — McGregor. 

Question 5 

What did Shame have to say about religion? 

Refer class to note, page 119. 

For the answer, underscore, page 64, "he said it was a pitiful, 
low, sneaking business," etc. 

What did Faithful answer him? 

Underscore, "What God says is best," "shame, depart ! thou art 
an enemy," etc. 

Sh.\me 

"Bunyan groups together in a masterly way the arguments used by 
men against religion and their ridicule and contempt for it. Enemies of 
Christ try to make voung Christians ashamed of 'tender conscience' and 
'watching over his words.' Bunyan here calls it Shame ; we today would 
call it ridicule." 

The arguments of Shame are — 

(1) THE SPIRITLESSNESS OF RELIGION 

(2) THE WEALTH OF THE IRRELIGIOUS 

(3) THE WORTHLESSNESS OF THE RELIGIOUS 

LIFE 
Regarding the first : Christians were looked down upon by the high 
and mighty of Bunyan's time. Faithful was one who had a keen regard 

29 



Helps for Teachers of Pilgrim's Progress 



for the world's opinion. In Buuyan's time Puritans iiad much to bear, 
and sensitive natures were tried sorely by the contempt and shame which 
w.ns cast upon them. 

'■Resardins the second : Bunyau evidently has in mind David's study 
of the prosperity of the wicked in Ps:ilm 7o. God showed David that 
their sood times are for this world only. 

'■Regarding the third : The world thinks that "the cross is foolishness' 
and to them religion has always been a stumbling block. Shame ridicules 
the mourning and groaning of Christians over their sins. There was 
doubtless much of it in Bunyan's day. It may have been exaggerated by 
some, as is often done by the Negroes today ; but these outward signs, 
when promiJted by sorrow for sin are too sacred to be ridiculed. In a 
protracted meeting when penitent or weeping over their siuN the ungodly 
may laugh and make fun. But they have the judgments of God to reckon 
with.'* 

As we read Faithful's son.i;, we may well imagine his broad 
shoulders set back, his head held high and his vigorous, military 
walk. He is a MAN, and has overcome the suggestions of his 
tempters. 

Question 

How did Christian describe Talkative's i-eligion? 

Have two readers carry out the dialogue between Christian and 
Talkative. See note on page 119. 

For the answer, underscore, page 68, "His house is as empty 
of religion as the white of an egg," etc. Also, "but thinks that 
hearing and saying will make a good Christian,"' etc. 

How did they get rid of him? 

For the answer, underscore, page 69, "Have you felt your own 
sins?" etc. 

Comment on Talkative — 

This is one of the longest of the dialogues of the story. In this 
edition it has been shortened, esi>ecially in the latter part. It is 
written in Bunyan's best style and is a wonderful bit of satire. 
The plain style of Christian and Faithful in their speeches is quite 
in contrast with the speeches of Talkative. 

"We wonder who was Bunyan's model for this masterpiece of loquacity. 
But he had seen the evils of the rattling conversation of those to whom 
religion is a matter of speech instead of deeds. There is no ring of 
sincerity because Talkative had no Christian experience. Those who know 
Christ by experience can talk of Him with sincerity. They are religion's 
best advocates." 

Some Lessons to Leakn from Talkative 

1. He who talks too much is certain to exaggerate his expe- 
rience. 

2. Sacred things interested him only as a department of study, 
about like another man would be interested in botany or astron- 
omy. 

30 



Helps for Teachers of Pilgrim's Progress 

3. Only accuracy and a i)ractical personal oxperieneo make 
one's talk about religion ring true. 

4. One who has been saved by the blood of Christ can never 
discuss it dispassionately, in a purely academic way, especially 
with an outsider. 

5. Undue familiarity with holy things is profanity and be- 
littles a man. 

6. Quotations of Scripture are effective only when used with 
sincerity and accuracy. The Devil quoted Scripture, but his lack 
of sincerity is apparent. 

7. Talkative contradicts himself because he lacks depth of 
thought and actual experience in Christian things. 

S. Talkative reminds us of the professional critic and sermon- 
taster of today. He knows better how it should be done than does 
the earnest preacher who is doing it. 

9. Talkative is a hypocrite ; first, he became a hypocritical 
talker, then a talking hypocrite. For a time he may have imag- 
ined what he said was true ; but later he knew he was simply 
posing. 

Two Tests 

1. His home. He was hard and selfish there. He could shine 
only among strangers. 

2. Repentance. Faithful's question, "Have you felt your own 

sins?" etc., was the pin that pricked the bubble. Talkative then 

collapsed. 

"As Fnithful talks of hoart work. 
Like the moon that's past the full, 
Into the wane he goes." 

Faithful 

"1. True to his name. His intellisence is not very wide, but he is true 
to what he knows. 

"2. Christian lets Faithful deal with Talkative. Yet when Faithful asks 
his opinion. Christian answers with a clearness that shows his wisdom 
and wealth of experience." 

Review the story from the Palace Beautiful up to Vanity Fair. 
Drill on the questions for this chapter. 



Z\ 



CHAPTER VI 

The preceding chapter (Chapter V) closes with the suggestion 
of a wilderness. Chapter VI opens with the pilgrims "almost out 
of it." 

"This is a subtle hint that the effect of all this empty talk was 
'a sense of dreariness which falls on the spirit after an excess of 
speech.' Sensitive souls who have had to endure a Talkative, now- 
adays, will agree w-ith Bunyan that they have been in a barren 
wilderness." 

Question 1 
For what purpose did Evangelist join the pilgrims? 
For answer, refer class to note, page 119. 

AFso on page 71, have class underscore key words in Evangel- 
ist's last speech. 

Question 2 

Of what is Vanity Fair a symbol? 

For the answer, refer class to note on Vanity Fair, page 119. 

As a definition of Vanity Fair, underscore, page 72, "It bears 
the name of Vanity Fair becau.se," etc. Also underscore key words 
in the description of A'anity Fair that follows. 

Comment — 

See notes on pages 119 and 120, and have class look up in the 
encyclopiedia the facts about the Smithfield persecutions and the 
death of Cranmer and Ridley. 

The Fair at Sturbridge, near Bedford, is described in Home's 

Yearbook, as follows — 

"The shops or booths were built in rows lilce streets, eacli having its 
name, like Garlick Row, Bookseller's Row. etc. Here were all sorts of 
traders like goldsmiths, milliners, to.vnien, drapers, hatters — in fact, most 
of the trades that can be found in London. Here were also taverns and 
eating places, coffee houses, etc., in great plenty. The chief diversions 
were puppets, rojte dancing, and music booths. The fairs wer,- ver.v in- 
jurious to morals." 

The picture in general represents Eurojiean society as it was 

in the days of Charles II. The various rows represent various 

types of worldliness. 

Beelzebub, the Lord op the Faiu 
"Bunyan's Satan is always mean, despicable, loathsome, and hated with 
a deadly hate. He is never to be admired. Contrast Milton's Satan — a 

32 



Helfs for Teachers of Pilgrim's Progress 



really great and majestic figure. Buiiyan's Devil ia more like Luther's, 
not a literary creation, but a terrifying memory of actual experience. 
Bunyan could never have drawn Mephistopheles, Goethe's familiarly dev- 
ilish creation." 

"THESE MEN attract attention in Vanity Fair and arous« the guilty 
and restless consciences of the people. Note these points — 

"1. Their Raiment. Robes of Righteousness which the Shining Ones 
gave the Pilgrims at the foot of the Cross. In Bunyan's da.y. the Puritans 
were marked by their dress and no doubt this picture was drawn from the 
life of that time. 

"2. Their Speech. These Pilgrims spoke 'as if they had found a new 
world.' Compare Paul speaking to the philosophers on Mar's Hill. Vanity 
Fair, in its littleness and vulgarity, resents and despises everything 
foreign, and men who knew something of the bigger things of life and 
immortality were sure to offend them. 

"3. The Pilgrims 'set light by their wares.' 'We buy the truth.' they 
said. Compare .Tesus before Pilate. Truth is the cry of all, but the game 
of only a few. Vanity Fair sought only the pleasures and indulgences of 
this life. Truth is always dear, and may be had only at a great price. 
Browning in his 'Grammarian's Funeral' develops this point." 

Question 3 

Why were the pilgrims brought to trial? See note on page 120. 

For the answer,' have class underscore, page 73, "Several rea- 
sons ; their garments," "their speech," "took no interest in the 
goods for sale." "put their fingers in their ears," "we buy the 
truth ;" page 74, "at last things came to a hubbub," etc. 

Question 4 

What did each witness say against Faithful? 

For the answer, have class underscore, page 75, first the charges 
"That they were disturbers of their trade," etc. Under Envy, page 
76, "He cares for neither prince nor people," etc. Under Supersti- 
tion, "I heard him say that our religion," etc. Under Pickthank, 
"have heard him rail on our noble prince Beelzebub," etc. 

Question 5 

What kind of death did he die? 

For your answer, underscore, page 78, fourth paragraph. See 
note, page 120. 

"Bunyan is here picturing, no doubt, his own persecution and impris- 
onment. .Tust how much of his own experience is identical with the pic- 
ture we can only imagine. The indictment against Bunyan was as follows : 
'He hath devilishly and perniciously abstained from coming to church 
to hear divine service, and is a common upholder of several unlawful 
meetings and conventicles, to the great disturbance and distraction of 
the good sub.iects of this kingdom, contrary to the laws of the sovereign 
lord the King.' 

"THE VERDICT. His death was already decided upon. The details 
as given here doubtless come from Foxe's 'Book of Martyrs.' The horses 
and chariot come from an older Book." 

"So. Faithful came to his end. Bunyan, in another place says of him, 
'And was not this man, think you, a giant? Was not "his mind elevated 
a thousand degrees above the carnal, fleshly, and the desire to embrace 
temporal things? He was a man of a thousand, had the face of the lions, 
and triumphed in the flames." 



CHAPTER VII 

Sketch the scenes from Vanity Fair to Douhting Castle, as 
shown by illustration in middle of this pamphlet. 

Question 1 

Who became Christian's companion, and how did this hapiien? 

For answer, have class underscore first sentence of oi)ening 
paragi-aph on page SO. 

Select a young man who is a good reader to render the 
speeches of Hopeful all through. 

"Hopeful is the new companion, made a pilgrim by the death of 
Faithful. . . . Bunyan evidently has in mind here stories from Poxe's 
'Book of Martyrs.' Recall the words of Latimer to Ridley when they were 
being burned at the stake in Smlthfield : 'Be of good comfort, Mr. Ridley, 
and play the man ; we shall this day light such a candle by God's grace 
in England as I trust shall never be put out.' Bunyan himself had said, 
•If to be hanged up presently before their eyes would be a means to 
awaken them and conform them in the truth, I gladly should be con- 
tented.' Christianity has even been like the Phoenix, rising into new 
life from the ashes of its own death. 

"Bunyan's heart and frank human nature is seen in the character of 
Hopeful. It is striking that the type of Christian which resulted from 
the murder of Faithful was Hopeful. No touch in all this story Is more 
striking than this." — Kclman. 

In Bunyan's own heart he found cheerfulness, and Christianity 
for him was full of hope. He was an optimist. Christianity sup- 
plies the only sane optimism in the world. See note on page 120. 

Question 2 

State the chief difference between Mr. Talkative and Mr. 
By-ends. 

For the answer, refer class to note on page 121. Carry out 
the dialogue. 

Comment — 

"It is a skilful touch of the story teller that introduces Mr. By-Ends 
here. This new character is brought in so as to keep the intercourses 
between Christian and Hopeful from growing insipid until interest in 
Hopeful is thoroughly established. Also Mr. By-Ends is in striking con- 
trast with the pure and heroic character of Faithful, about whom Chris- 
tian and Hopeful converse. 

"Mr. By-End's name suggests that everything he says and does is aimed 
at securing some advantage for himself ; he always has an end to accom- 
plish by it, or an axe to grind. 

"Mr. By-End's home in Fair Speech has left its character on all that 
he says. He would not speak harshly of another for fear of losing some 
favor. Matthew Henry says of the upright man, "He cannot think one 
thing and speak another; nor look one way and row another.' 

34 



Helps for Teachers of Pilgrim's Progress 



" 'Truth is better than politeness, and where disagreeable facts are 
concealed by fair speech, it is the most dangerous kind of lying.' In 
Hawthorne's "Celestial Railroad" we find the devil introduced as the Pil- 
grim's guide and his name is Mr. Smooth-it-away." 

Mil. By-Ends' Townsmen 

"The names of these townsmen are clever as usual. These names all 
suggest forms of lack of principle and all of them are at bottom covetous- 
ness of one sort or another. Their main business in life is to keep up 
appearances. 

'"Mr. By-Ends' wife was I/idy Feigning's daughter. This name suggests 
hypocrisy and all kinds of deceit. This couple had a religion all their 
own. (1) First, it never went against wind or tide. (2) Next, they were 
most zealous for religion when it walked in j,'olden slippers. Here we see 
religion masquerading as a dandy; it was meant for tlie e.ve and not the 
heart. The speeches of Christian in this dialogue reveal to us the mind 
of Bunyan. whose own experience had taught him that it never was an 
easy thing to be a Christian. We note that after this speech, Bunyan 
makes his Pilgrim give up hope of converting Mr. By-Ends." 

The Friends of Mr. By-ends. The dialogue beginning on page 
82 and conehiding on pa.ge 84 may be read out of class, and sum- 
marized by the teacher in class by using the following blackboard 
scheme — 

THE THREE MISERS 
MR. HOLD-THE-WORLD 

Hardened by experience. 
MR. MONEY-LOVE 

Loves money for itself, not what it will buy. 
MR. SAVE-ALL 

Hoards money to see his pile grow. 
Christian makes short work of these men when they put their 
question to him, for he .goes at once to the heart of things. Chris- 
tian's motives are not seltish and worldly, nor to be measured by 
monej'. Christian people may be either ix)or or prosi^rous, but 
neither is a sign of grace nor the lack of it. The great question is 
whether the Christian's estate, whatever it be, is consecrated to 
his reli.gion, or whether his religion is regarded as a feeder of his 
estate. 

Question 3 
What was the chief characteristic of Demas? Give his ances- 
try ; how was he like them? 

For answer, refer class to note, page 121. 

Also, underscore on page 84, '"Hei'e is a silver mine" ; on page 
85, "know you," to end of paragraph. 

Carry out the dialogue, and draw sketch of the Plain called 
Ease, and the silver mine. 

Comment — 

""In this story the Hill of Lucre is described as a little hill. Bunyan 
would have us know that the love of money is essentially a little thing, 

35 



Helps for Teachers of Pilgrim's Progress 



though it is often taken for a great thing. It is a little thing and one 
that belittles the souls of men." 

"Note the two effects of the silver mine : 

1. Those men were so maimed that they were never themselves again. 
Money-loving had warped their souls. 

2. The men were smothered by the foul air of the mine. Blase with 
worldliness. 

"Recall the statement in 2 Timothy 4 : 10, 'For Demas hath forsaken 
me, having loved this present world, and is departed unto Thessalonica.' 
The whole picture is a commentary on Christ's query in Mark 8 : 36, 'What 
shall it profit a man if he shall gain the whole world and lose his own 
soul ?' " 

The third sketch, that of Lot's wife, is omitted in this abbre- 
viated edition. Bunyan seems to Iiave put this picture into a later 
edition of his story because lie was greatly exercised about this 
vice; also to remind women that the sin of covetousness is not one 
to which men only are addicted. 

Question 4 

What was By-path Meadow? How did the pilgrims get into 
it? What happened? 

Refer class to notes on page 121, and underscore key words in 
paragraph on "River of the Water of Life." 

For answer to Question 4, have class luiderscore, "they wished 
for a smoother path," "at the left of the road, a meadow," etc. 

Add the note on Vain Confidence, near bottom of page 121. 

Comment — 

"The Meadow of Ease is beside the stream, the River of the Water of 
Life. This is an idyllic conception, imagined and treated with great 
beauty. The meaning of this is like that of any great symbolic poem ; 
that is, it may mean to each reader whatever the reader finds it to mean. 
It stands for a kind of religious ease, and a lack of restraint. Such an 
experience often comes during a revival of religion, or in the delights of 
Christian fellowship. 

"It seems that Bun.van feared such times. One writer points out the 
fact that more misfortunes befell the Pilgrims during this period than in 
former ones. Ease is usually a time of temptation. 'Man's spiritual 
existence is like the flight of a bird ; it is sustained only b.v effort ; when 
the bird ceases to exert itself, it falls.' It was Mrs. Josephine Butler who 
said, 'I have learned in a long lifetime now drawing to a close to beware 
of halcyon days.' " 

By-Path Me.\dow 
"Discouraged and with tender feet because they had walked so long in 
the delicate plain, of Ease, the Pilgrims spy the stile on the left hand, 
like a set temptation ; it was so opportune and in answer to their desires. 
The interesting fact is the coincidence of the stile and their wishes ; of 
temptation within and opportunity without. The whole length of this 
road is furnished with opportunities to escape from it. but we become 
aware of these only when desire for escape is at work within our hearts. 
The part of the story which follows is one of discouragement, danger and 
misery. These strong men were like lost children. Bach feels himself 
alone. Note Hopeful's utterance, 'Oh, that I had kept my way !' " 

36 



Helfs for Teachers of Pilgrim's Progress 



The Two Paths 
"The two paths of rijrht and wrong start from the sanio point and are 
separated by a very small difference. But wait a while, and pursue the 
road leading to destruction, and you will find the distance between has 
widened and a great gulf is fixed so that you cannot pass from one to the 
other, though you desire it ever so earnestly." 

Question 5 

Tell about Douhtins Castle. Who kept it, and how did the 
piliirims fare? 

For answer, have class underscore key words on pages 89-92. 
Ask some one who can tell a stor.v well to stand before the class 
and describe the exi>eriences of Doubting Castle. 

Refer class to note, page 121. 

Comment — 

It was "the morning after" that they saw Giant Despair. Sin 
and Folly never looked so wretched as when seen in the cold and 
passionless light of early morning. The awakening was bitter ; 
yet even at its worst it is better to be awake. 

"The main features of Doubting Castle are imprisonment and help- 
lessness. This experience comes late in the pilgrimage, as such moods 
often do amid the depressions of old age. The whole picture stands for 
a general state of depression, and extends over four days. 

"The difference between the bearing of Christian and Hopeful is strik- 
ing. Normally. Hopeful should have fallen lowest into the depths of 
despair and been encouraged by Christian. But here Bunyan shows the 
failure of the strong man in an emergenc.v and gives him an optimist for 
a companion. Hopeful's light is not extinguished in the darkest gloom. 
He speaks of 'the country to which we are going' and finds comfort in 
the possibilities of the future. Hopeful gives ten reasons against suicide : 

1. God's command and his charge about our own bodies. 

2. The soul and its future. 

3. The fear of hell. 

4. Giant Despair is not the lord of the land. 

5. Others have escaped. 

6. Chance of deliverance. 

7. The fight is in itself worth an eft'ort. 

8. Christian had been valiant previously. 

9. I am in the dungeon with thee. 

10. To be in such shame is not becoming a Christian." 

Note that Prayer comes as a help, but not until "Saturday 
night." On Saturday about midnight they began to pray. 

After prayer came the Promise and in close connection with it. 
"Every prayer is founded on a promise, and every true prayer dis- 
covers a promise as a foundation." Note that the promise is the 
key that led to their freedom. In the Slough of Despond the 
promises were the stepping-stones which led out. 



37' 



CHAPTER VIII 

Reproduce the sketch of the Delectable Mountains, as found in 
the middle of this pamphlet. 

Question 1 
Tell of the pleasures of the Delectable Mountains. 
Refer class to note on page 122. 

Have class underscore key words in first two paragraphs, 
page 94. 

Question 2 
The four places to which the shei)herds took them and what 
they saw from each. 

For answer, have the class underscore the following, which may 
serve as a blackboard scheme — 

1. HILL CALLED ERROR: UNBURIED BODIES 

2. HILL CALLED CAUTION: DOUBTING CASTLE 

3. DOOR IN SIDE OF HILL: BY-WAY TO HELL 

4. HILL CALLED CLEAR: GATES OF HEAVEN 
Comment — 

"EiU'h hill rt'iirescnts m peculiar view of life to be had at this stage 
of Christian's experience. The tirst two, p]rror and Caution, indicate dan- 
ger ; the tljird, Mount Clear, gives glimpses of heaven and future bliss. 

"1. Error. This hill slopes upward innocently enough, but on its 
farther side is a precipice. Men climb that hill to get a wide view of 
earth and heaven and are dashed to ruin. The fate of the climbers is a 
terrible commentary upon a certain kind of wide view. 

"2. Caution. This hill seems to be named for the effect it has upon 
the climber. The blind men. stumbling among the tombs, may be taken 
to represent Christian and Hopeful as they would have been that day but 
for the grace of God. 

"The aspect of the Delectable Mountains up to this point can hardly 
be thought to justify their name. But, to Bunyan, hell was a frighful and 
crude reality and he was conscious of the dangers which always lurk 
along the fairest paths of the world. There is a note of reality in Bun- 
yan's descriptions here. They bear the authentic mark of experience. 
He, like Dante at Verona, was the man who had been in hell. 

"H. Mount Clear. This is th(> only adventure on these mountains 
that seems delectable. It stands for lofty spiritual insight. This is the 
Pilgrinrs first definite glimpse of heaven. As the years o"f the pilgrimage 
drew to their close, it seems fitting that they should have had this view." 

. Question 3 
Outline the story of Little Faith. What does it teach us? 
For the answer, have class underscore key words on pages 98- 
99. For "What does it teach us?" see note on page 122. 

38 



Hel-ps jar Teachers of Pilgrim's Progress 



Comment — 

'•The teaching of the story of Little Faith seems to be that one may 
be overtaken of a fault, and yet recover; may have a collapse, and yet 
j;et on his feet asain ; for no failure is necessarily Irretrievable.'' 

"In the full story. Little Faith is preceded by Turnaway, who failed 
utterly is his pilgrimage. Bunyan seems to feel the need of these two 
stories to show the contrast and to teach that a true pilgrim will come 
back after his backsliding. 

"Little Faith was -asleep at the switch"; a good man but not energetic. 
Unfortunately, he was not wise enough to see that he sat down where 
Dead Man's Lane leads into Rroadway Gate. 

Recall former instances of sleep, such as Sloth, Simple and Presump- 
tion ; the Arbor on the Hill of Difficulty ; and in the grounds of Doubting 
Castle, Bunyan would teach us to watch. 

"The jewels stand for all a man has of worth and hope for eternity 
and to sell them is to seal his doom forever. It is one thing to be a 
coward and a weakling, but it is another thing to hold lightly the gift 
of eternal life. 

"Little Faith is no Great Heart, but he is emphatically a good man ; 
a man of genuine and sincere character. That is what appeals to Chris- 
tian and enlists his strong regard. 

Question 4 

What experience did the pilgrims have with Flatterer? With 
Atheist? 

Have class underscore key words and phrases to sugjjest the 
chief points in these two stories. 

Refer to notes on page 122. Two good story tellers may tell 
to the class the stories in their own v/ords. 

Comment — 

The simplest interpretation of the Flatterer would be that which takes 
Brim for a hinnan friend and companion. 

"The mention of Flatterer's blackness is one of the rare color touches 
in the story. It may be supposed to stand for badness when used by a 
member of the whitei race. It is a curious fact that some of the black 
races reverse this order and whiteness is for them a color of fear or of 
wickedness. It is said that an illustrated edition of the Bible was once 
published and had a great sale among the Negroes of the South because 
the angels were represented as black and the devils as white. This is a 
fine instance of national self-satisfaction. 

"Another reason for Flatterer's blackness may be that the region 
through which the IMlgrims are now moving is a region only half under- 
stood, with mystery and magic in it. The dark color may have been 
chosen to fit in with the enchantment idea. 

"Another interpretation of Flatterer is that he may be within the soul 
of the one who is flattered. It is significant that Flatterer is almost silent, 
not uttering a single word of praise. Bunyan may have been thinking of 
silent flattery within the soul, rather than of any external voice of a 
cynical or hypocritical enemy. 

"A friend once complimented Bunyan on "The sweet sermon which he 
had delivered.' He replied. "You need not remind me of that, for the 
Devil told me of it before I was out of the pulpit.' " 

39 



Helfs for Teachers of Pilgrim's Progress 



Atheist 

"Bunyan's Atheist is of the cruder sort ; one whose atheism is the 
result of his own behavior. 'It is true that a little philosophy inclineth 
man's mind to atheism ; but depth in philosophy bringeth men's minds to 
religion,' so says Bacon is his essay on atheism. 

"Atheist says, 'There is not such a place as you dream of in all of 
this world.' The answer is obvious, 'But there is such a place in the 
world to come.' Blessed are those who have intellect enough to believe 
farther than they can see. Even the most unimaginative pilgrim who 
endures to the end, will see the Celestial City when he has reached the 
farther bank of the River. How much of America did Columbus see until 
the last day? Whether a man shall see heaven or notj may depend in 
some degree upon how long he goes on looking for it." 

With Bunyan, the secret of atheism lies in the will rather than 

in the intellect. The fool who hath said in his heart "There is no 

God," says that in his heart because his heart first said it to him. 

Question 5 
Outline Hopeful's exiierience of conversion. Have the class 
underscore and number the following — 

1. "The end of these things is death." 

2. Faithful told him, By trusting Jesus. 

3. Faithful said. Go to Him and see. 

4. I began to pray. 

5. Jesus said, Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ. 

6. Jesus said, My grace is sufficient. 

7. "He that cometh to me shall never hunger." 

Stress these verses as the finest possible selection for use in 
soul-winning. Make the application to the class. Urge the Chris- 
tians to follow Faithful's example. Note the result of genuine 
conversion. "It made me love a holy life and long to do some- 
thing for the Lord Jesus." 

Comment — 

The effect of the enchanted ground upon the two men is worth noting. 
Hopeful's delicate and high strung nature is more easily fatigued and lie 
is sleeping. But Christian seems never to have felt the spell at all, for 
such robust and strong nerved men do not succumb to the subtler forms 
of temptation. He is wide awake and able to handle Hopeful in a hearty 
common-sense way. 

"Christian's plan is to keep awake by stirring up intellectual and 
spiritual interests. So he begins his cross questioning about past experi- 
ences. One thing which will always arouse interest in any man is to start 
him talking about his own experiences. If one cannot be interested in 
himself and what has happened to him, he is almost hopeless. Remember 
Paul's words. 'Experience worketh hope.' As Hopeful remembered his 
experiences, it made him indeed hopeful again. So Christian plunges at 
once into the past and asks, 'How came you to think at first of so doing 
as you do now?' " 



40 



CHAPTER IX 

Complete the sketch as given in the middle of this pamphlet. 

Question 1 
What does Beulah Land mean? How near heaven is it? 
Have class underscore, page 105, second paragraph. Also "A 
more perfect view" ; "builded of pearls, streets paved with gold." 
Comment — 

Beulah Land suggests a land of flowers and gardens. "This shaggy- 
old world is yet studded with gardens," says R. L. Stevenson. 

"It is interesting to note that angels visit the pilgrims in Beulah 
Land. We are familiar with stories of angel visits to young children and 
to the dying, but here we have angels visiting pilgrims of old age. Bunyan 
maintains the naturalness of it in spite of the supernatural." 

THE TWO REMAINING DIFFICULTIES 
"'Hie angels tell the pilgrims of two remaining difficulties, the River of 
Death and the Heavenly Heights Beyond. Viewed from the earthly side, 
nothing would seem more reasonable than to speak of these two expe- 
riences as difficulties. But in the story the anticipated pain and difficulty 
seem to vanish as the pilgrims proceed. These were but the consequences 
of the mortal garments which the pilgrims have left behind them in the 
River, for the passage from the farther bank of the River is swift aad 
full of joy." / 

Question 2 

What River had to be cro.sSed? What made it deeper or 
shallow ? 

For answer, see note on page 122. 

Comment — 

The Celestial City 

"Bunyan leads us to the presence of God in heaven, but does not at- 
tempt any description. It is interesting to note that the point which God 
selects for praise, repeated again and again, is that the pilgrims have made 
this journey all for the love of him. 

"We lose sight of the pilgrims in the blaze of heavenly glory and amid 
the strains of heavenly music. They have arrived at last. For them as 
they look back, it is evident that all things earthly have now taken on 
a heavenly meaning and 'Good was the pathway leading to this.' 

"As Bunyan closes his story, he leaves his pilgrims within the gates. 
'Which when I had seen I wished myself among them.' There is no need 
of any comment upon that. It is the most perfect touch of all." 

Ignorance Fails to Enter 
"We wonder why Bunyan was not satisfied with the perfect close of 
the last sentence as quoted above. He must have known that in these 
words he had found the real close of his story, and it must have been 
at great cost to his own artistic taste that he adda the final section about 
Ignorance. 

41 



Hel'ps for Teachers of Pilgrim's Progress 



"But Bunyan was a preacher first and foremost, and an artist only 
in a secondary sense. The last word of any faithful preacher must be 
a word of warning. So he is thinking of living sinners known to him 
and of millions yet unborn. He thinks of them in their danger. Igno- 
rance had been heedless of all warnings and of the reality of love when 
God had sought him in past days." 

"Ijife is real and death is real. The most dangerous enemies of the 
human race are those who delude the souls of their fellows into an unreal 
dream of security in this sinful world." 

REVIEW OF .STORY FROM THE PALACE BEAUTIFUL 
TO THE END 

Use the sketch found iu the middle of this pamphlet as a basis 
of rapid review from the half-way point, the Palace Beautiful, to 
the end. Review by Characters, writing on the blackboard the 
following — 

FAITHFUL ' 

TALKATIVE 

HOPEFUL 

BY-ENDS 

DEMAS 

GIANT DESPAIR 

SHEPHERDS 

FLATTERER 

THE SHINING ONES 

Review by Places, writing on the blackboard the following — 

VALLEY OF HUMILIATION 
VALLEY OF SHADOW OF DEATH 
VANITY FAIR 
FAITHFUL'S DEATH 
PLAIN CALLED EASE 
BY-PATH MEADOW 
DOUBTING CASTLE 
DELECTABLE MOUNTAINS 
ENCHANTED GROUNDS 
BEULAH LAND 
RIVER OF DEATH 
CELESTIAL CITY 

Review by Doctrines. Have the class state cases where the 
following doctrines are taught — 

1. Evil cannot be overcome by mere human strength. 

2. The Bible is the revealed Word of God. 

3. Atonement for sin is made by Christ's death. 

4. The wrath of God follows every sinful act. 

42 



Helfs for Teachers of Pilgrim's Progress 

5. On the .Indunicnt l>ay. wo must answer to Christ for our 

deeds, 

(i. Faith in Clirist is the only way to escape eternal death. 

7. Only the ijrace of God saves man from the flames of hell. 

S. Good works are but the test of our faith. 

J). The devil is an active aj^ent in human lives and affairs. 

10. The man wiio would ol)tain salvation must turn his back on 

self. 

11. The saved Christian wants to lead a holy life and honor 

Christ. 
VI. Heaven is the place to which saved people w at last. 
18. In how far do Baptists believe the things Bunyan taught? 

"THE PILGRIMS PROGRESS" COMPARED TO ISRAELS 
JOURNEY FROM EGYPT TO CANAAN 

A Scheme for Review 

All aloiiff in this story, we have been struck with Bunyan's 
familiarity with the Bible and his use of it as the source from 
which to draw his characters and illustrations. 

The following comparison is taken from Pelouhet's notes — 

1. Escaping; from Egypt, with rt'lisioiis ritPs, at thp call of Moses, in 
view of the judsmeuts of God. and feeling bitterly the degradation of 
slavery, is like Christian hastening from the City of Destruction with his 
fingers in his ears, crying, "Life. Life. Eternal Life !" 

2. Crossing the Red Sea against opposition, finding the way with diffi- 
culty, b>it helped by God's almighty power, is likp beginning the Christian 
life." 

3. The bitter Waters of Marah. the trials of the desert, early in their 
march to the land of promise, remind us of thei Slough of Despond, in 
which Pliable exclaimed, "Is this the happiness ye have told me all this 
while of?" 

4. The Wells and Palm Trees of Elim show us the spring at the base 
of the hill "made by the Lord of the hill for the refreshing of weary 
travelers." 

5. The Pillar of Clouds and of Fire is represented by Evangelist and 
the Roll and the Shining Ones. 

6. The Enemies, as Amaleck and the Canaanites and the sons of Anak. 
are pictured by Apollyon with his fiery darts in the Valley of Humilia- 
tion. 

7. The Manna has its counterpart in the Interpreter and the Roll, the 
teachings of Evangelist, and the supper in the Palace Beautiful, with its 
"feast of reason and flow of soul." 

8. The Golden Calf and its worship is partl.v paralleled by Worldly 
Wiseman and others, who sought to turn the pilgrims to other sources of 
relief than the Cross of Christ and the Wicket-Gate. 

9. The frequent murmurings and complaints, the bitter doubts 
whether they ever would reach "the land flowing with milk and honey," 
remind us of Christian and Hopeful in the Castle of Giant Despair. 

But as they found the Key of Promise and of Hope, so all the things 
that tried the Israelites were a part of their necessary discipline. They 
should have made a heavenly ladder of their trials. ".Tncob, wrestling 

43 



Helfs for Teachers of Pilgrim's Progress 



all night with the strange power that maims him, clings and wrestles on, 
and will not let go wrestling until he has extorted a blessing from his 
hurter." "The hard lot, called poverty, ignorance, narrow conditions, 
accidents, is waiting to give us, after the struggle, temperance, diligence, 
fortitude, concentration." 

10. The Tabernacle, with all its appointments, is symbolized by the 
Palace Beautiful, with its armor and supper and chamber of peace. 

11. The truths taught by the Day of Atonement and the Brazen 
Serpent are well expressed by the burden on Christian's back falling off 
in the presence of the Cross, so that he "gave threei leaps of joy, and 
went on singing." 

12. The reports of the spies remind us of the Delectable Mountains, 
whence the pilgrims caught glimpses of the Celestial City. 

13. The Israelites' anger at Caleb and Joshua makes us think of the 
trial of Faithful in Vanity Fair. 

14. Moses on Mt. Nebo looking over Jordan and obtaining glimpses 
of the promised land reminds us of Christian and Hopeful in the land of 
Beulah, listening to the singing of birds of paradise, and seeing the 
Shining Ones, and gaining glimpses of the gem-built walls of the city, 
just over the narrow river of Death. 

"There is a beautiful legend that at the funeral of Saint Ranieri, June, 
1161. at the moment when, as is usual in the course of the service for the 
dead, the 'Gloria in exccl»is' was suppressed, as unbefitting in its cheerful 
character the sadness of the occasion, a choir of angels appeared in the 
midst of the silent congregation and chanted the words so mistakenly 
omitted, a spontaneous accompaniment bursting forth from the organ." 

"THE CELESTIAL RAILROAD ' 

(Note : The class will appreciate the humor in this after the study 
of "Pilgrim's Progress.') 

"The Celestial Railroad." by Nathaniel Hawthorne, was pub- 
lished in "the forties" (1S40-1S50) and preceded the publication of 
"Twice Told Tales," and "Mosses From an Old Manse." It is a 
humorous modern version of "The Pilgrim's Progress," and is 
aimed at modern "easy religion" and "isms" of all sorts which try 
to make the pilgrim's way from earth to heaven a flowery bed of 
ease. 

In the Introtluetion of "The Celestial Railroad" as published 
by the Crowell Company, price 50 cents, we read — 

From a child, Hawthorne was a delighted reader of "The Pil- 
grim's Progress" and his loving familiarity with this great allegory 
is evinced at every turn of the story. The parody is supposed to 
have been first suggested to him by the frequent disasters which 
attended the early attempts at railroad travel ; by the lighting of 
some towns by gas ; and by the transcendental school, which num- 
bered some of Hawthorne's friends among its adherents, and which 
"smoothed the ancient religious dithculties" and turned "Satan 
and Hell into metaphors." 

Although written for a time long past, we know that it was 
never more apropos than today, "when transgressions from the 

44 



Helfs for Teachers of Pilgrim's Progress 

beaten path of theology are more and more numerous." May it 
help our readers of the B.Y.P.U. edition of Pilgrim's Progess to 
see that "the broad way leadeth unto death, while the narrow way 
is the way to life eternal." 

In his lecture on "The Short Cut," by Leon C. Prince, we find 
the following delightful summary of "The Celestial Railroad" : 
"You remember in Bunyau's 'Pilgrim's Progress," that, as Chris- 
tian leaves the City of Destruction for the Celestial City, it is an 
arduous and perilous journey which he undertakes. It is in the 
face of ridicule and i^ersecutiou from friends and family, and 
under a heavy burden which he can drop only at the foot of the 
cross. He sinks in the Slough of Desi>oud, climbs the Hill of 
Difficulty, suffers in the Valley of Humiliation, is sore wounded 
in the tight with ApoUyon, is buffeted in Vanity Fair, falls into 
the clutches of Giant Despair and languishes in a dungeon in 
Doubting Castle, and at last crosses the River of Death and gains 
a triumphant entry into the City Eternal amid the acclamations 
of rejoicing angels. It is a simple allegory which has brought 
hope and comfort and encouragement to many a struggling and 
exhausted soul. 

"Hawthorne, in one of his inimitable fantasies, has given us an 
admirable satire on the short cut to the City which Bunyan's hero 
sought and gained with such pertinacity of effort. 

"An enterprising corporation built a railroad between the City 
of Destruction and the Celestial City to obviate the difficulties and 
dangers of the Christian pilgrimage. 

"They filled the Slough of Despond with books on philosophy 
and higher criticism, and on that as a foundation erected an 
elegant but rather insubstantial bridge. 

"The luggage of the passengers, consisting of questionable 
habits and other dross of human nature, instead of being borne 
upon the back until they fell off at the foot of the cross, were 
neatly stowed in the baggage car, to be delivered to their owners 
at the end of the journey and enjoyed to the full in the Celestial 
City. 

"ApoUyon was hired as an engineer. Mr. Greatheart, the 
doughty old champion of the foot pilgrims, was offered the job 
of brakeman, but refused because he could not compromise his 
former differences with ApoUyon. 

"The Hill of Difficulty was pierced by a spacious tunnel with 
a double track. The material excavated from the heart of the 
Hill of Difficulty was used to fill up the Valley of Humiliation. 

45 



Helps for Teachers of Pilgrim's Progress 

"Even the Valley of the Shadow of Death was illumined by 
artificial light manufactured from the inflammable gases which 
exuded from the soil. Tophet, which Bunyan designated by such 
plain speech and took so seriously, was described as the crater 
of a half-extinct volcano in which the directors had caused forges 
to be set up for the manufacture of railroad iron and the supply 
of fuel. 

"Vanity Fair, which had been implacably hostile to the foot 
pilgrims of Christian's day, was very friendly to the railroad 
which brought business, and the capitalists of the town were 
among the road's heaviest stockholders. 

"The Castle of Giant Despair was turned into a hotel and the 
River of Death crossed by a steam ferryboat. 

"All in all, the railroad prospectus painted such a delightful 
picture that everybody hastened to buy a ticket — politicians, mil- 
lionaires, leaders of fashion, ladies of society, all eager to com- 
bine the spiritual benefits of religious i)ilgrimage with the festive 
pleasures of a holiday excursion. 

"But in all these elaborate and luxurious preparations there 
was one thing overlooked. The Lord of the Celestial City had 
never granted the railroad a franchise, and no traveler could enter 
His dominion on a ticket over that line. The man who bought a 
passage lost the purchase money, which was the price of his own 
soul. The whole thing was a fraud and a delusion. The Celestial 
Railroad instead of being a short cut to the Celestial City proved 
to be a short cut to a totally different destination — which the 
directors said did not even exist — a destination located under the 
crater of Tophet, which was not an extinct volcano, after all." 



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